Choral singing as a window to freedom

A tool for individual and social transformation in the "Santiaguito" Social Reintegration Center Penitentiary in the State of Mexico

Abstract

This work aims to analyze the impact of coral practice in the context of the Social Reintegration Penitentiary (CPRS) of "Santiaguito" in Almoloya de Juárez, in the State of Mexico. Males and females in the prison participated in a vocal and choral practice workshop, while simultaneous intervention and research were carried out. The aim of this paper is to show that participants developed and/or improved specific skills of singing, as well as socioemotional skills.

Through a holistic didactic approach, the members of both groups developed a sense of individual responsibility by progressively gaining self-esteem, confidence, and security while lowering their inhibitions. They also demonstrated a willingness for cooperative work and positive interaction among equals, by developing empathy and a sense of belonging. Women were especially empowered both individually and as a group and overcame their initial lack of vocal skills along with their situation of isolation and helplessness, which lowered their social and emotional abilities as females and prisoners in this particular context.

The conclusions of this work reveal the diverse potentialities of group vocal practice as a transformative tool of the first order. The impact was felt in individuals and groups, by improving the lives of people from the psychological, emotional and social points of view. The experience furthermore promoted a holistic development of individuals who expressed themselves through the shared artistic experience, which generated prosocial attitudes. In the medium term this promotes reintegration and social inclusion, moreover, helping to meet the social justice challenges of democratic societies.